Statement by Bishop Raimo Goyarrola on the attack against the Catholic church in Gaza.
I am deeply shocked to learn that the only Catholic church in Gaza has been attacked by the Israeli armed forces. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the local Catholic community and to all those suffering from the war in Gaza, and I condemn this shameful act against God’s house and against civilians. It is yet another example of the senselessness of war and a reminder that the innocent are always among those who bear the cost of violence.
I join our Holy Father Pope Leo XIV in his appeal for an immediate ceasefire. I ask all Catholic faithful in Finland, and all people of goodwill, to pray — individually and together — for the people of Gaza, regardless of their religion, so that Christ, the Prince of Peace, may grant them and the whole world true peace, reconciliation, and hope for the future.
Helsinki, 18 July 2025
+ Raimo Goyarrola
Bishop of Helsinki